The former Newcastle United and Man City midfielder takes up his first managerial job after being banned from playing for 18 months.

He admitted a misconduct charge relating to betting which reduced by five months.

It expires on the June 1st with the 35-year-old taking over at Highbury Stadium on June 2nd.

It will be his first role as a coach and follows a playing career in which he represented Man City, Newcastle and Burnley, among others.

The Cod Army confirmed today that John Sheridan is leaving the club after guiding them to League One safety.

Sheridan took over from Uwe Rosler on a short-term contract in February but the club have decided to go in a new direction.

Barton said: “I’m very excited by the challenge and the project at Fleetwood Town.

“It’s a club I’ve known for a long time, and a chairman I already have a very good relationship with.

“My first job in management was always going to be a big decision for me and I’m delighted with the opportunity ahead, I’m joining a club with big ambitions. I’m looking forward to getting started on June 2."

Joey Barton (Image: Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Chairman Andy Pilley added: “This is a huge appointment for Fleetwood Town Football Club and one I’m very excited about.

“Joey not only brings a host of experience and profile, but I also feel he has the potential to become one of the best in the new generation of coaches"

“He’s someone I’ve known for a number of years and I’m convinced he’s ready to make the step into management, and that he will be a huge success.

“Joey will be able to build-on the fantastic work done by John Sheridan during the last couple of months, one he deserves huge credit for.

“John joined us on a short term arrangement with the aim of keeping us in League One and I’m delighted he’s been able to do that.

“Today’s news signals a new chapter for Fleetwood Town which starts on June 2nd, and one which we are all excited about.”